The Montessori Teaching Method
Dr Maria Montessori was the founder of this unique method of teaching young children. She initially observed children and how they learn. Unlike conventional teaching, which often instructs and installs knowledge from outside, Dr Montessori discovered that every child is gifted with a will and love for learning, a so-called inner teacher. Her approach therefore was to assist and guide a child, meeting their needs to help them reach their maximum learning potential and to unfold their unique personality.
The essence of Montessori education is that every child is treated with respect, given freedom within the limits of a carefully structured environment and allowed to develop naturally at his or her own pace.
Based on her findings, Dr Montessori developed her own teaching materials and changed the role of the traditional teacher. With the right approach children learn willingly, so the Montessori teacher is gentle, sympathetic and full of encouragement. She/he provides the stimulus and inspiration for the child to learn and progress. As a friendly helper, she/he is always at hand to guide and encourage positive attitudes and help create well-balanced individuals.
Once settled, a child is free to choose his* own activity. He is usually taught on a one-to-one basis, to encourage maximum response, but never pressured into learning or rushed in any way. This in turn promotes confidence and independence. Children are involved in different activities, working alongside each other therefore learning to respect one another and form friendships.
The Montessori method of teaching has been accepted in almost every culture in the world. The curriculum embraces practical life exercise, sensorial education, language and mathematics and all the cultural and creative subjects.
Visit the website of the Montessori Centre International here.
*the use of the words he or his infers both genders